As we age, our bodies change – this isn’t news. But sometimes the changes can take you by surprise. Here are some things you may see happen to the skin and nails of your feet as you enter your golden years.
You’ll likely notice your skin becoming thinner and lighter because the number of pigment-containing cells in the outer layer decreases, thus making older skin look translucent. It will also lose some of its elasticity due to changes in connective tissue. The blood vessels in the second layer of skin become more easily bruised, leading to conditions such as bleeding under the skin or cherry angioma. The third layer of your skin, which contains fat in addition to housing the sweat glands, thins out as well, which means older people are less insulated and more susceptible to hypothermia.
Nails aren’t exempt from the aging process either. They may become brittle and easier to break, occasionally developing ridges along the length of the nail. Some people’s nails change complexion, turning yellow and opaque. Toenails will grow thicker and become harder to trim properly. Therefore, ingrown toenails can be a frequent problem in old age, all the more so due to pressure from tight-fitting shoes.
Knowing what you can expect as you age will help you to do it gracefully. Remember to stay as healthy as possible in your lifestyle and diet choices, and seek appropriate medical care as soon as possible when you face an injury.